How big is my final product going to be? How heavy do I want my final product to be? How much money can I spend on my clay? Do I want my clay to have a heftier, “premium” feel (usually applies to jewelry/trinkets/beads)?

Paper based clay feels fluffy to work with, but is hard and light when it dries. [2] X Research source Paper based clay will be fluffy and chunks of it will break off in similar fashion to cotton candy. [3] X Research source

Smaller projects like jewelry or beads benefit from the “premium” feel of resin or porcelain based clay. [5] X Research source Resin based clay is denser and will pull apart like fudge, caramel, or toffee. [6] X Research source

If you still aren’t sure what type of clay to use, or want advice on your project, some stores have clerks that can answer your questions, and even offer classes. [8] X Research source Purchasing your clay online will usually give you better prices and options, but you may have to wait several days for it to arrive.

You can use a wire or floss to “cut” chunks of clay off of a block. This is useful for accurately measuring how much you are using.

If using multiple bags for one piece, knead the clay together after each bag of clay has been warmed and kneaded separately. If using paper based clay, you can add a small amount of water to additionally soften the clay. [9] X Research source Resin based clay can be softened (and colored!) with acrylic paint. [10] X Research source

Crafting tools (or even dental picks and equipment!) can be very useful for creating more complex projects, as you can be much more exact with them. [11] X Research source If you are making a larger project that needs to stand up such as a vase, make sure that it has a large, flat base.

Tough excess clay can sometimes be saved by (carefully) using a microwave to warm the clay up.

A cool, dry area (one with low humidity) is best. Mild air circulation is also helpful. Thicker projects (over 1cm) may take even longer to dry. [15] X Research source Better to be safe than sorry.

Resin based clay turns darker and more translucent. [16] X Research source Paper based clay will stay very opaque.